Vacations ahead! List of UAE public holidays for 2026
Are you dreaming of long weekends, exciting staycations and unforgettable getaways? The upcoming public holidays in the UAE bring you the perfect opportunity to explore some of the beautiful places in the country. So, please mark your calendars as we reveal the complete list of confirmed UAE public holidays 2026.
The Significance of Public Holidays
The UAE’s public holidays reflect its cultural diversity and Islamic heritage. The government typically announces a calendar of public holidays at the beginning of each year, allowing residents to plan their time off in advance. In 2026, the UAE is expected to observe 9 public holidays.
Public holidays in the UAE honour important religious, national and cultural events. These holidays offer residents a chance to spend quality time with family and friends, participate in community events, and engage in celebrations deeply rooted in Emirati traditions.
Officially Confirmed UAE Public Holidays 2026
Get ready for a holiday-filled 2026 in the UAE! With at least 12 public holidays confirmed, it will be a great year for relaxation. The early announcement in May 2024 introduced a new resolution allowing flexible holiday scheduling. This means that if a public holiday falls on a weekend, an extra day off may be granted on the adjacent Friday or Monday*.
The new flexible scheduling rules apply to all public holidays except Eid Al Fitr and Eid Al Adha.
Keeping this in mind, here’s a quick overview of the official UAE public holidays 2026 calendar:
- New Year’s Day: Thursday, January 1
- Eid Al-Fitr: 1 to 3 Shawwal
- Arafat Day: 9 Dhul Hijjah
- Eid Al-Adha: 10 to 12 Dhul Hijjah
- Islamic New Year: 1 Muharram
- Prophet Muhammad’s (PBUH) birthday: 12 Rabi’ Al-Awwal
- National Day: 2 and 3 December
Upcoming Public Holidays in the UAE 2026
While the dates of some UAE public holidays have already been officially confirmed, others depend on the sighting of the moon. Official authorities will confirm the dates during the Islamic months they fall under.
Following New Year’s Day on January 1, Eid Al-Fitr is the next public holiday to look forward to. This holiday marks the end of Ramadan and is one of the most celebrated occasions in the Islamic calendar.
To stay updated, bookmark this latest UAE holidays list 2026 and check back for the confirmed dates!
UAE Public Holidays 2026 Predicted Dates
Even though some of the dates are not yet officially confirmed, you can confidently plan your vacations around these dates:
- New Year’s Day: Thursday, January 1
- Eid Al Fitr: Friday, March 19 – Sunday, March 22
- Federal government: Thursday, March 19 until Sunday, March 22, 2026
- Private Sector: Thursday, March 19 until Saturday, March 21, 2026. Sunday March 22 will be a holiday if Ramadan lasts for 30 days.
- Arafat Day: Tuesday, May 26
- Eid Al Adha: Wednesday, May 27 – Friday, May 29
- Islamic New Year: Monday, June 15
- The Prophet Mohammed’s (PBUH) Birthday: Monday, August 24
- National Day: Wednesday, December 2 – Thursday, December 3
Public Holidays in the UAE 2026 Details
Let’s take a closer look at the details of the official public holidays in the UAE.
New Year’s Day: Thursday, January 1
The first holiday in the UAE 2026 is New Year’s Day! Since the new year in the UAE is falling on a Thursday, UAE residents will get a day off!
Eid al Fitr Holiday
UAE Muslims celebrate two Eid yearly: Eid Al Fitr and Eid Al Adha. Eid Al Fitr 2026 in the UAE will mark the end of the holy month of Ramadan. The UAE authorities have confirmed the following holidays:
- Federal government: Thursday, March 19 until Sunday, March 22, 2026
- Private Sector: Thursday, March 19 until Saturday, March 21, 2026. Sunday March 22 will be a holiday if Ramadan lasts for 30 days.
Arafah Day: Tuesday, May 2026
Eid Al Adha break starts with Arafah Day, which will fall on Tuesday, May 26, 2026.
Eid al Adha: Wednesday, May 27 – Friday, May 29
Eid Al Adha is expected to fall from Wednesday, May 27, to Friday, May 29. However, the dates can change, depending on the sighting of the Dhul Hijjah moon.
Eid Al-Adha, also known as the “Festival of Sacrifice,” is another significant holiday that follows Eid Al-Fitr. It commemorates the willingness of Prophet Ibrahim (Abraham) to sacrifice his son in obedience to God. This holiday is marked by the ritual sacrifice of animals, with the meat distributed to those in need, reinforcing the values of charity and community support.
During the holidays for Eid Al Adha 2026 in the UAE, you can explore some of the UAE’s best resorts!
Islamic New Year: Monday, June 15
The Hijri New Year 1448 is expected to coincide with Monday, 15 June, marking 1 Muharram. From an official standpoint, the holiday is scheduled for Tuesday, 16 June. However, it will be brought forward to the start of the working week.
Prophet Muhammad’s (PBUH) Birthday: Monday, August 24
The next public holiday in the UAE 2026 is on Monday, August 24, to mark the birthday of the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH).
The official date is set for Tuesday, 25 August. However, the holiday has been shifted to the start of the week.
Eid Al Etihad: Wednesday, December 2 and Thursday, December 3
The UAE observes its National Day in December, and this year will be no different. The holiday is now recognised as Eid Al Etihad and will be observed on Wednesday, December 2 and Thursday, December 3.
Changes to Public Holiday Regulations
Starting in 2024, a new law* allows public holidays that fall on weekends to be moved to the beginning of the following week. This adjustment means that residents may enjoy the day off the following Monday or Tuesday if a holiday like the Islamic New Year lands on a Saturday or Sunday. This change aims to provide more flexibility and enjoyment during holiday periods.
The new UAE public holiday laws apply to all public holidays except Eid Al Fitr and Eid Al Adha.
Impact on Work and Business
Many companies in the UAE adjust their working hours around these holidays and it’s important for employees to be aware of their rights and entitlements regarding time off.
FAQS About UAE Public Holidays 2026
Can there be changes to these holidays?
Islamic holidays that follow the lunar calendar are subject to change based on the sighting of the moon.
How does the UAE celebrate its National Day?
Every year, the United Arab Emirates commemorates the day of its formation as a free and independent country with great zeal and zest. Traditional UAE National Day celebrations include fireworks in several neighbourhoods and a light show at Burj Khalifa.
How can we spend these holidays in the UAE?
If you wish to spend these holidays with friends and family in the country, check out various fun things to do in Dubai. You can visit exciting eateries, fun beaches, parks and historic sites.
How are public holidays determined in the UAE?
Public holidays in the UAE are determined by the federal government and are announced at the beginning of each year. They are based on the Islamic lunar calendar and significant national events.
What should I do if I want to travel during the holidays?
If you plan to travel during the public holidays, booking your travel and accommodation in advance is advisable to secure the best options and avoid higher prices.
Are there any specific traditions associated with Eid Al-Fitr?
Eid Al-Fitr is celebrated with communal prayers, festive meals and giving gifts and charity to those in need. It is a time for families to come together and celebrate the end of Ramadan.
How can I find out about local events during public holidays?
Local news outlets and social media are great resources for discovering events and celebrations happening during public holidays in the UAE.
And that wraps up our list of upcoming public holidays in the UAE 2026! These holidays provide families a great chance to plan a holiday trip from Dubai and other emirates. Residents can also go on solo trips from Dubai to different countries. Now is the time to plan your vacations or staycations to get the best deals on flights, hotels and activities.
A lot will be happening around the city in the coming year. So, if you are searching for more fun things to do during the UAE holidays 2026, stay tuned to MyBayut for updates on the hottest events, activities and attractions!
Remember that the dates for this list upcoming UAE public holidays may change throughout the year. Keep following MyBayut for the UAE holiday dates update!
